The New York Times reports that President Trump wavered over U.S. involvement in potential strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, and plans for possible strikes appeared to be called off by midday Sunday. Officials say commanders had approved target lists and bombs were being loaded onto U.S. warplanes before the decision was reversed. The episode underscores the risk of deeper U.S. entanglement as Washington weighs pressure from Saudi Arabia and the broader stakes of confronting Iran-backed forces.
Trump Wavered On U.S. Support For Possible Strikes On Houthi Targets, NYT Reports
President Donald Trump reportedly vacillated over whether to assist Saudi Arabia with strikes against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, and plans for possible U.S. action appeared to be called off by midday Sunday, The New York Times reports, citing anonymous administration officials.
Riyadh had pressed the White House to back its offensive after the Houthis stepped up attacks this summer. According to the Times, Trump initially resisted strikes but reversed course following a phone call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman last Thursday.
By midday Sunday, sources briefed on the operation said the administration seemed to waver again. Commanders had approved target lists, personnel were reportedly loading bombs onto U.S. warplanes selected for the missions, and the wave of attacks was nearly set to begin before the plan was reconsidered.
Risks And Regional Context
The episode highlights the challenges and risks of deeper U.S. involvement as tensions with Iran rise. While Saudi officials urged U.S. participation, American engagement in strikes could entangle U.S. forces more deeply in the conflict and raise broader military and political costs for the administration.
“The U.S. has a defense agreement with Saudi Arabia and we will always defend our allies,” a senior administration official told The New York Times.
A White House spokesperson declined to comment on the president's deliberations for the record, according to the Times. The newspaper’s account is based on anonymous officials and people briefed on the operation.
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